Living alone often comes with added expenses, especially for individuals who depend on social welfare. Recognizing this, the Irish government offers the Living Alone Increase — an additional payment of €22 per week, totaling €1,144 per year. This financial aid is designed to help cover basic costs such as food, electricity, heating, and healthcare. It’s a lifeline for older people and those with disabilities who manage their household on a limited income. Though many qualify, some remain unaware and miss out on this critical support.
This increase is not a separate benefit, but a top-up to existing social welfare payments such as State Pensions, Disability Allowance, or the Blind Pension. To qualify, applicants must live alone or in specific independent living arrangements like granny flats or sheltered accommodations. However, those living in dormitories, nursing homes, or with long-term tenants are not eligible. The aid aims to ensure that those who live independently are not disproportionately burdened by the costs of solo living.
Applying is straightforward. Claimants must already receive a qualifying payment and then submit the LA1 application form, available online or at Intreo Centres. Once approved, the payment is added to the weekly welfare deposit. This top-up is tax-free and does not affect other entitlements. Even Irish citizens living overseas cannot claim this support, as applicants must reside in Ireland. For help, contact your local Social Welfare Office or visit Gov.ie for more resources.
Benefits of the Living Alone Increase
- Extra €22 Weekly: Adds up to €1,144 per year.
- Tax-Free: Fully exempt from taxation.
- Helps With Essentials: Eases the cost of living alone (utilities, groceries, etc.).
- Available With Other Benefits: Doesn’t interfere with your main social welfare payment.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify, you must live alone and receive one of these payments:
For people aged 66 or over:
- State Pension (Contributory or Non-Contributory)
- Widow’s/Widower’s or Surviving Partner’s Pension
- Deserted Wife’s Benefit
- Incapacity Supplement (under Occupational Injuries)
For people under 66:
- Disability Allowance
- Blind Pension
- Invalidity Pension
- Incapacity Supplement
Living Situations That Qualify or Disqualify
Qualified Living Arrangements:
- Living alone in your own home or apartment
- Living in a granny flat with full independence
- Sheltered housing (if no constant supervision)
- Occasional guests or short-term visitors allowed
Not Qualified:
- Dormitory-style housing
- Nursing homes with 24/7 care
- Running a B&B, even part-time
- Having a long-term paying tenant
Hosting Ukrainian refugees under the EU Temporary Directive does not disqualify you.
How to Apply
- Download or collect the LA1 Form.
- Complete it with details about your living situation and welfare payment.
- Submit it to your local Social Welfare Office by post or in person.
- Await confirmation and, once approved, the payment will be added automatically.
Can You Apply From Overseas?
Unfortunately, no — the Living Alone Increase is only for those residing in Ireland. Irish citizens abroad do not qualify, even if they receive Irish social welfare.
Payment Information
- Amount: €22 per week
- Annual Total: €1,144
- Added To: Your existing weekly social welfare payment
- Tax Status: Not taxable
Support & Contact
- Apply Here: Living Alone Increase Application Form (LA1)
- Inquiries: Visit your local Intreo Centre or call the Department of Social Protection
- Website for Info: www.gov.ie